Presenting Braille Forward, Braille Everywhere
Announcement:
The NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Invites You To:
The January 2026
Community Connection Call
“2026 Tuning Into Your Resource Mix;
New Year, New View, and How It Applies To You”
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 | 10:30am to 12:00pm
Hosted by Krystle Allen, CBVI Community Outreach Specialist
NJ CBVI’s Community Connection Calls are evolving, and you’re invited to be part of what’s next. Beginning this month, these interactive Zoom sessions will focus on connecting you directly to community resources and services through live and comprehensive demonstrations designed with your daily living needs in mind.
Who’s helping you to navigate online content and assistive technology live and in real time?
Which community connections make the biggest difference in your everyday life?
Where do you turn for trusted resources and support?
As the New Year begins, many of us are reflecting, setting intentions, and embracing fresh starts. It’s the perfect time to explore new tools, strengthen community connections, and reimagine what’s possible. Join NJ CBVI as we navigate a dynamic mix of:
Live demonstrations of resources and technology
Community services tailored to your needs
January’s 31 observances
Interactive conversations and shared stories from the blind and low vision community
If any of these questions resonate with you or someone you care about, this is your opportunity to discover new ways to navigate daily living in 2026 and beyond.
Keynote Presenter:
Maureen Clerc, Supervisor – Bureau of Energy Programs and Assistance, NJ Board of Public Utilities.
Resource Provider:
Sarah Gerdes – Outreach and Development Specialist – Hadley School for the Blind
Ian Matty, Director – Mountain Lakes Public Library
Bianca Johnson, App Developer – No Limits App & Ms. Altruistic 2025
The benefits of networking and sharing information are the primary focus of the Community Connection Calls. This month’s “In Our Own Voices” panelists will share their stories. All are members of New Jersey’s blind, deafblind, and visually impaired community.
“In Our Own Voices” Panelists:
Omar Tzic
Rhea Hood
Corey Rainford
Here are the simple directions for participating in the CBVI Community Connections Call:
Option 1: Join via Zoom
Either Click the Zoom meeting link here: Join Zoom Meeting
Or Open the Zoom App and Enter the Meeting ID and Passcode
Meeting ID: 161 116 2134
Passcode:1910
Option 2: Join on the phone via One Tap Mobile (click the link from your mobile device)
+16468287666,,1611162134#,,,,*1910# (New York)
Option 3: Dial-in via Phone
Dial the conference phone number: 1-646-828-7666.
Enter the Meeting ID: 161 116 2134 when prompted
When asked for a participant ID, simply press the pound key (#).
Enter the Passcode: 1910
That’s it! You’re all set to join the meeting.
Relay Captioning Link for individuals who are Deaf or Hearing Impaired:
(At the start time of the event, please login by clicking on the link below)
If you have any questions, or would like to be a Community Connections Call panelist, please don’t hesitate to email: Krystle.Allen@dhs.nj.gov or call: 973-648-4497
Krystle Allen
Community Outreach Specialist
New Jersey Commission For The Blind and Visually Impaired
Desk: 973-648-4497
Mobile: 973-943-2209
Email: krystle.allen@dhs.nj.gov
“If you want to stand out, don’t be different, be outstanding.” - Meredith West
Image NJCBVI Logo: Dark blue Braille cells that depict NJCBVI, with a gray hand hovering over the letter “N” with the finger pointed to read; to the right and directly under the Braille cells is NJCBVI in large, bold, blue block letters under which in all caps is New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired in gray letters.
